UT and Hertz Provide Green Transportation for Students

Published: January 20, 2010

The University of Tampa has partnered with Hertz Rent-a-Car to offer qualified drivers age 18 and up vehicles to rent at a low rate — by the hour or the day.

The program, Connect by Hertz, will be available for students, staff and faculty, starting on Feb. 1. Two environmentally-friendly vehicles — a Mini Cooper and a Ford Escape — will be parked on North B Street near the Office of Safety and Security, and UT community members will be able to reserve the cars online and only pay for the time they rent the car.

The self-service, pay-as-you-go system provides members with 24/7 access to the vehicles, transferring the fixed costs of car ownership to per-trip costs. Membership in Connect by Hertz includes insurance, fuel, roadside assistance, maintenance and cleaning, as well as a paperless service in which transactions are available via the Internet or phone.

"This program offers an option for families undecided about sending a car with their college student,” said Rod Plowman, vice president of administrative services. “It offers an economical, convenient and socially conscious alternative to car ownership.”

Through April 11, University members will be able to join Connect by Hertz for free. Rental rates will start at $9 per hour. Plus, all members will have access to cars in all Connect by Hertz locales, including New York, London and Paris. Program membership will also include insurance, fuel, roadside assistance, maintenance and cleaning.

Other campuses that use Connect by Hertz include Ohio State University, Pepperdine University, Colorado College and UNC Charlotte. UT will be the first Florida university using Connect by Hertz.

“For some students, bringing a car to campus is not always feasible,” said Bob Ruday, dean of student affairs. “Connect by Hertz gives our students freedom and mobility without the expense and hassle of maintaining a car.”